Two Kelston schools in ACC’s Mates and Dates pilot

“Local school children will directly benefit
early from being involved in ACC’s Mates and Dates pilot
programme against sexual violence” says National MP and
Kelston candidate Claudette Hauiti.

“This is fantastic
news for our community. It’s important our young people
learn the skills they need to form healthy relationships
based on respect, negotiation and consent.”

Kelston
Girls’ College and Kelston Boys’ High School have been
selected as two of nine secondary schools to trial the pilot
which will see up to 2000 students nationwide taught
relationship skills by specialist local facilitators over
five weeks. The pilot begins in term three.

“Sexual
violence has a massive impact on victims and their families
and this Government is committed to driving lasting change
in preventing sexual and dating violence,” Ms Hauiti
says.

In 2012/13, ACC funded around $44 million towards
sensitive claims – all of which relate to sexual
violence.

“By focusing on the attitudes and behaviours
of young people we can reduce the harm caused to our
communities by sexual and dating violence,” Ms Hauiti
says.

The pilot will be funded by ACC and provided by
local facilitators. Rape Prevention Education will
facilitate Mates & Dates at Kelston Girls’ College and
Korowai Tumanako at Kelston Boys’ High School.

The Mates
& Dates pilot programme has been developed with input from
sexual violence sector representatives, interested community
groups, government agencies and specialist academics, along
with input from students, parents and teachers.

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